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A pair of clutch-hitting, two-time New York Yankees World Series champions have been added to complete a powerhouse starting lineup of honorees for the 37th Annual Thurman Munson Awards Dinner on Tuesday night, February 7, at the Grand Hyatt in New York City. In celebration of the 40th Anniversary of the Yankees 1977 championship, Thurman’s teammates on the left side of the infield – third baseman Graig Nettles and shortstop Bucky Dent will be feted by the AHRC New York City Foundation.
Both starting players on the ’77 and ’78 World Champs, Nettles will be presented with the Munson Legend Award, while Dent joins Yankees phenom Gary Sanchez, Mets fan favorite Wilmer Flores, and Giants Super Bowl champion Victor Cruz as recipients of “Thurmans” at the benefit which has raised nearly $15 million for programs to assist the disabled. The gala remembers the beloved, legendary Yankees captain and catcher.
For tickets and information on the Munson Awards Dinner call 212-249-6188 or email jennifer@emgbenefits.com. Tickets may be purchased on line at www.ahrcNYCfoundation.org/events.
The Thurman Munson Awards are presented for success and inspiration on the fields of play, and community spirit off the field.
During a 22-year major league career including a decade with the Yankees, Nettles was regarded as one of the finest defensive third-sackers of all time, and an outstanding clutch hitter. A six-time All-Star, his best campaign was in ‘77 when he won received the Gold Glove Award and enjoyed career highs in both home runs, 37, and RBI, 107, while leading the Bronx Bombers to the world title against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Nettles clobbered 390 home runs and 1,314 RBI in 2,700 games during his two-decade career, and his flashy glove compiled a .964 fielding percentage.
A three-time All-Star, Dent was the World Series MVP in ’78 after vaulting the Yankees into the post season with his epic three-run homerun over Fenway’s “Green Monster” to down the Red Sox in the pennant tie-breaker that is indelibly etched in Yankees lore. He hit .417 in the World Series.
A long time community servant, Dent launched the Legends on the Links Golf Tournament 32 years ago to assist local sports programs in Florida. In tribute to his late wife Marianne’s Embraced with Love charity, Dent assists cancer patients in a wide variety of initiatives.
Nettles serves as a board member on his teammate Roy White’s foundation which provides financial assistance to children and young adults to further their education; has assisted inner city youth in his former residence in Knoxville, Tennessee, and is active on the charity golf circuit, including Dent’s annual tournament.
The AHRC New York City Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that supports programs enabling children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead richer, more productive lives, including programs of AHRC New York City. AHRC New York City is one of the largest organizations of its kind, serving 15,000 children and adults who have intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injuries and other disabilities.
Diana Munson, Thurman’s widow, will attend her 37th consecutive benefit, having been involved since its inception.
Sanford J. Schlesinger, Founding Partner, Schlesinger Gannon & Lazetera LLP, will be the recipient of the “Corporate Hero” Award.
Michael Kay, the “Voice of the Yankees” on YES Network and ESPN NY Radio 98.7 FM host, will serve as Master of Ceremonies.
